After concluding their tour of the expansive facility, Flint is left in awe and filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. It seems as though her life is taking a turn for the better compared to her previous mundane existence. She feels a sense of belonging and relief as she embarks on this new journey. Meeting some of the teachers and getting a brief introduction to some of the students, it is definitely a refreshing change from her previous school. However, she can't quite say that she completely "fits in" just yet. This is only the beginning, and there is still so much she doesn't know. For example, what was Van Hellstring referring to when he mentioned "sensitive" books being locked away? What secrets do they hold? Despite his warning about asking questions, her curiosity persists.
They approach some doors leading to the outside balcony.
L: We've come to the end of our tour Ms. Lockewood. Any questions?
F: Um, just a couple. You said the archives was one of the many ones you have. How many exactly?
L: Ah yes, well in this realm, the possibilities are endless. But in the 'mortal' realm; I say about five...give or take. All modernized I might add just to avoid suspicion.
F: There's more back home? Why haven't I've heard of them?
L: Well, to give you a brief history between our two worlds. Mortals and the Realm of Magic have never really been on the same page to say the less. In fact, we've only agree to coexist in the last decade. And as an extra safety precaution, I took the liberty of placing each facilities in excluded areas
F: But why the secrecy? Wasn't that the whole point of the..treaty?
L: *chuckle* It's hard to believe, Ms. Lockewood, but there are still people who don't accept us for who we are, and the feeling is mutual. Even though I personally don't feel the same way, I have a responsibility to protect and support my students and others. Interestingly, just like you, only a select few trusted individuals are aware of this place and others like it.
F: But what about me makes me...special?
L: That my dear....only you can answer for yourself
He gave a mischievous smirk before something else caught his attention. He face towards the entrance portal and the smirk fell from his face.
L: Please excuse me Ms. Lockewood. There's something I have to take care of. My apologies
He gave a respectful bow before vanishing from her sight. Once again, suspicion crept in, prompting her to look in the direction he had been gazing. To her surprise, he was standing on the bridge, but he wasn't by himself.
Someone spoke from behind her. She clutches her chest before scolding the culprit. Why do everyone like to walk up behind me?
S: My apologies, I didn't mean to scare you, I just couldn't help but overhear your question. Names Seth by the way
F: Oops, excuse my outburst. But I'm Flint, nice to meet you. Gave me a bit of a heart attack but it's fine. Umm, what was you saying again?
S: Hello Flint, it was a pleasure to meet you as well. As I mentioned earlier, those individuals conversing with Hellstring are none other than the other headmasters, who refer to themselves as 'The Council'. It is highly likely that they are the most esteemed and exclusive magic council of this century.
F: Interesting, are they really that significant?
S: With no one else willing to take on the job, and considering their unique ability to survive for an extended period of time, it seems like the logical choice. I can see the reasoning behind it, don't you think? -smirks-
S: You don't have to fret about encountering them frequently. They only appear once in a blue moon, typically at special events or private sessions such as the one you are witnessing now.
Flint shifts her focus to the group. From a distance, she detects a menacing and ominous vibe emanating from the other two. She's not one to typically make snap judgments. Nevertheless, she believes she should trust her instincts this time.
F: So what's their deal? Is there anything I need to know about them?
S: Among the three individuals, Van Hellstring stands out as the most relaxed, despite his rather intimidating name. They are undoubtedly the wealthiest beings in the area. However, when it comes to the other two, I strongly recommend keeping your distance or proceeding with caution, especially with Ms. Edith Lynx. From a distance, she may appear to be a kindhearted lady, but be wary of her sharp tongue. It seems that she only has genuine concern for her grand-daughter and doesn't particularly care for anyone else.
F: Grand-daughter? Does she go here?
S: Oh yeah, I've seen her around, but I've never actually hung out with her. However her bloodhound of a boyfriend makes it hard for anyone to get close. All puns intended. If you spot them together, you'll understand. He's always keeping a close eye on her, but that's nothing compared to what Ms. Lynx is capable of. Word on the street is, she's not a big fan of 'mortals' like you.
Flint gulped nervously and reminded herself to avoid the intimidating vampire woman.
S: And finally, the legend himself, Vladmir Straud. Despite Van Hellstring being the main headmaster of FilMorgue, it is Straud who provides the majority of the funding. There isn't much information available about him, except for the fact that he is the eldest among them all. He is believed to be the longest-living vampire in existence, a true enigma. Only those closest to him have any insight into his motives. Rumor has it that he is the mastermind behind The Council and the Realm Magic Court Order, a governing body that represents each occult group, known as the House of Magic.
Flint nodded her head taking in all the information Seth shared with her. Took one final look at the headmasters. This really going to be an interesting school year. Interrupting her train of thought, a loud chime was heard throughout the facility.
S: That's our cue to regroup in the main hall
F: Oh alright, right behind you
